Lateral Inguinal Hernia in a 13-Year-Old Child: A Case Report

Case Report

Abstract

Background: Indirect inguinal hernia, particularly in children, is typically due to the failure of the processus vaginalis closure and is located lateral to the inferior epigastric vessels. Hernias are generally found in children aged 0-5 years, in premature infants, and in elderly individuals aged 75-80 years. In this case, however, the patient is 13 years old, an age that is considered uncommon for the manifestation of a congenital hernia. Case: A 13-year-old boy presented with a one-month history of an intermittent left scrotal bulge. Physical examination in the standing position revealed an elongated lump extending from the left inguinal region down to the left scrotum, which became more prominent during the Valsalva maneuver. The lump was spontaneously reduced when the patient was lying down. The lump had a soft consistency, welldefined margins, a smooth surface, and was reducible on pressure. Two similar-sized testes were palpable in the scrotum. The diagnosis was left indirect inguinal hernia; the patient underwent herniotomy without complications. Postoperative recovery was uneventful with no residual complaints. Discussion: Indirect inguinal hernias in children are generally caused by the persistence of the processus vaginalis and are characterized by a lump that appears when intra-abdominal pressure increases. Diagnosis is clinical, and the definitive treatment is surgery (herniotomy) due to the higher risk of incarceration. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early detection and appropriate management in the pediatric population to prevent complications such as incarceration or strangulation.